The Ransom of Red Chief

Interesting Facts

• The main characters, Sam and Bill, decide to kidnap a boy for ransom, but their plan backfires.
• The kidnapped boy turns out to be uncontrollable and causes the kidnappers numerous problems, creating comedic situations.
• Instead of receiving a ransom, the kidnappers are willing to pay the boy's father to take him back.
• The story mocks stereotypes about kidnappings and shows that not everything goes according to plan, even for seasoned criminals.
• O. Henry uses irony and humor to create an unexpected plot twist that makes the story memorable and funny.